Historical Sewing Patterns (Women)

1870 - 1890 Sunset Knoll Polonaise, Tea Gown and Redingote

Amazing costume pattern from Mantua Maker.

This pattern has two variations in the neckline: the standing collar and a square evening gown neckline. The sleeves may be cut three quarter length for reception or dinner wear; or full length for day wear; for evening or ball wear, there is also a short sleeve, or they may be left off altogether. The back pleats may be single or double, wide or narrow. There is also an option for a Tea Gown with a flowing, loose appearing front.

The polonaise was popular for day wear and evening wear throughout this period. The princess polonaise, a variation on the princess dress, was floor length and put all of the draperies to the back of the skirt. A normal polonaise was worn with a skirt showing, and might be draped with great attention to showing off the skirt underneath. The polonaise was mentioned often in fashion magazines, and profiled regularly, with praise for its versatility within the wardrobe.

The redingote, which essentially was an undraped, rather severe version of the polonaise, was not as popular, but it was still quite fashionable from 1883 1890. It was worn by fashionable working women, or ladies with more austere tastes.

This pattern includes 29 pages of instructions with historical tips, and 6 pattern sheets. It is printed on bond paper, and enclosed in a reclosable plastic bag.

All sizes Petite Full are included. Fabric amounts depend more on height than on size it is set up for someone who is 5 feet 2 inches to 5 feet 11 inches (marked as Petite, Medium, Tall and Very Tall). If you are shorter or taller than the marked increments, or want a more or less draped polonaise, you will need to shorten or lengthen this pattern.